Women and health care:

Don't ignore your body's symptoms

Women and health care When you're busy with work, being a mom or volunteering for your local charity, it's easy to overlook common medical symptoms. That's your body's way of telling you to seek careâ€¦and there are some symptoms, you should never ignore.

Heart attack
We often think about men and heart attack, but what about women? Symptoms include uncomfortable pressure, fullness, or squeezing pain in the center of the chest that is sometimes accompanied by pain in the upper body including arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach; shortness of breath; a cold sweat; nausea; and lightheadedness.

Stroke:
With stroke, seeking medical attention with the first three hours can make all the difference. Symptoms include the development of problems with speech, sight, balance, and coordination, as well as numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or legs.

Call 911 if you or a loved one is experiencing any of the symptoms for heart attack or stroke. You should also visit your OB/GYN if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

Breast health problems
Symptoms that could signify a breast health concern include tenderness, pain, a lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm, nipple discharge, or changes in the skin (such as dimpling or puckering) covering the breast or nipples.

Digestive or stomach problems
Digestive or stomach concerns include changes in bowel patterns, constipation, diarrhea, pain or feeling of fullness in stomach, bloating and constant heartburn.

Reproductive health problems
Don't wait for your next yearly exam if you are experiencing excessive bleeding or spotting between periods; itching, burning, bumps, blisters, or sores on the vagina or genital area; severe menstrual or pelvic pain.

Skin health problems
Be aware of any changes in the color, shape, or size of a mole; a sore that doesn't heal; a small, smooth, shiny, pale, or waxy lump; a lump that bleeds or develops a crust or a flat; a red spot that is rough, dry, or scaly.

Aurora Health Care, conveniently located across eastern Wisconsin, offers comprehensive health care services should you or a loved one have any health care concerns. Find a location near you.